Find the Best Spiritual Retreats in the World 2018/2019

While some people may want to go on a retreat to detox their body, or just relax, some people want to access the deeper aspects of spirituality and healing. You can experience your own divine revelation with a personal retreat that combines spiritual growth with your yoga practice.

Going on a weekend, 7-day, or even 30-day retreat is one of the best ways to go deeper into practice, and ultimately your own being. Awaken your spiritual life on your next yoga retreat.

Life has many distractions.

They are constant.

They pop up in daily life and they can sometimes get in the way of your spiritual well-being.

But don't let everyday life get in the way of your spiritual development. Because who wants to admit that their spiritual path is blocked by emails, rush-hour traffic, and really slow sales clerks?

Hey, it happens. We're human.

But don't forget that we are also spiritual beings on a path to spiritual awakening.

Distractions happen but don't forget to take care of your spiritual well-being.

On a spiritual getaway, you’ll have the dedicated time and environment to explore the spiritual dimensions. This may take the form of activities like:

Asanas (postures)

Breathing techniques

Meditation

Prayer

Chanting

Singing

or even dancing

Many of the major religions place an importance on going to a spiritual retreat centre. This is especially true for Buddhists, Christians, Roman Catholics and Sufis.

However, you certainly don’t need to be affiliated with any religion. You simply need a desire to unravel some of the deeper aspects of life. A desire to know. A desire to dive into the great mystery of life.

Whether you're searching for a total body and soul retreat or a quick meditation getaway, you will be deepening your spiritual practice along the way.

It awaits you.

Your Personal Spiritual Retreat Guide

You are about to embark on a beautiful journey, one that is divinely yours. Even so, finding the starting point of your journey can seem like a daunting task.

You first need to dig deep and figure out what you’re looking for. Not sure what that might be?

Before creating a tentative schedule at a retreat center that may or may not serve you, consider these top 5 reasons why you should go on a spiritual retreat:

#1 Connect With Nature

We’re made of star stuff. At least, that’s how Carl Sagan put it. “We are a way for the universe to know itself. Some part of our being knows this is where we came from. We long to return. And we can, because the cosmos is also within us.” The world-famous astronomer may have been an exceptional scientist, but he also seems to have fully appreciated the divine connection that humans have with nature.

Why?

Because we are nature. We are made of the very same stuff as Mother Nature, brought forth by the vibrant world in which we live.

Sometimes it’s hard to forget that, though.

Traffic jams, overflowing inboxes, desktop notifications and the never-ending lines at the grocery store can get in the way of remembering our truths. We are one and the same with nature and a spiritual retreat can reconnect you with that.

#2 Gain Clarity on the Important Things in Life

The best part about connecting with nature (from #1 above)?

It strips all the distraction from your mind so that you can finally get that clarity you’ve been looking for. Things slow down, simplify, and become beautifully clear.

Not sure whether you need clarity or not?

Well, how difficult is it to make a decision, big or small? How overwhelming are the curveballs in your life? How well do you deal with stress, change, and anything else that might make life just a little bit harder?

If your answer to any of these questions is anything other than “with peace” then you, my friend, are in deep need of clarity.

Go. Find it in your spiritual retreat.

#3 New Experiences Change Your Perspective

Our daily routines can often make us feel like we are spinning in a hamster wheel. Round and round we go, seeing the same things and struggling with the same challenges. Sometimes it is good to step off that hamster wheel and look around a bit.

Take yourself on a spiritual journey by physically placing yourself in a new place, by taking yourself to a new mental space, by connecting with the divine powers that be.

These small changes will change you by giving you a new, fresh perspective.

#4 Learn Better Coping Mechanisms

Our coping mechanisms are wonderful tools that our magnificent brains came up with in order to deal with stressful situations. As stressful situations arise, it can be quite difficult to think clearly.

So, in order to cut corners and help us handle these situations, we resort to these nifty little coping mechanisms.

The problem?

They are only good for a very short time until we are in a more centered place in order to make better decisions. Otherwise, we run around with a ticking time bomb in our chests, one bad traffic jam away from a total meltdown.

Instead of relying on in-case-of-emergency coping mechanisms, give yourself the time and space to develop new, healthy coping mechanisms. A spiritual retreat can often help you do that as it better connects you with your inner self.

#5 You Deserve It

We are spiritual beings. We deserve to honor that and foster that. When we neglect this very innate aspect of ourselves, we are actually doing more harm than good.

And don’t you deserve the good?

Yes, you do!

All you need to do is give yourself the opportunity to do it. A spiritual retreat is a great way to do just that.

And don’t worry, there are many types of retreats to choose from. You will find one that is exactly right for you.

Popular Retreats

Spiritual retreats are truly special but there are a few that everyone seems to love even more than the rest. As always, this fully depends on what you're looking for.

For many, a spiritual healing retreat is desired as the meditative qualities of spirituality can help us dig through past traumas. Using meditation for healing is perhaps one of the most profound ways we can process emotions, traumas, and stress.

Truly! The power of meditation knows no bounds.

In fact, when most people search for "spiritual retreats near me" they find that many of them include meditation as an integral part of the retreat. Naturally, you will find many spiritual meditation retreats on our site, too. (Though, if you're looking specifically for meditation retreats, then we've got those, too.)

Others might search for a spiritual couples retreat as a deep, spiritual connection can serve as a great foundation to a beautiful relationship.

Spiritual Retreats for Couples

Embarking on your spiritual journey does not have to be one of solitude. In fact, I would argue that our entire existence is based on our spiritual experiences with others. Many couples take this opportunity to explore themselves while exploring their union together, too. Many couples seek marriage workshops that foster the deeper spiritual connection so that they can continue to thrive and grow together in the lifetime to come.

Guided Meditation for Healing

Meditation is a powerful tool for healing, whether it is physical healing or emotional healing. As meditation and spirituality are often so closely linked, it makes sense that many spiritual retreats rely on guided meditations to drive the greatest change among its retreat goers. As meditation rewires the brain, it transforms the way that you process emotions and trauma. It opens up channels within yourself that may have been previously blocked. If you have experienced trauma in the past, or you are seeking to harness the greatest power of your brain to improve your bodily functions against illness, then a spiritual retreat with guided meditation for healing may be a great fit for you.

All-Inclusive Retreat House

If you're looking for a retreat schedule that allows you to dive fully into your spiritual practice, then consider looking for a retreat center that takes care of all the details for you. Many of these places include meals, meditation sessions, and even a meditation teacher. Some will have other guests while others will coordinate a private retreat for you. Clear your mind with silence, peace, nature, and yoga. Let the retreat centre worry about the rest.

Mindfulness Retreats

Searching for “mindfulness retreats near me” can be a daunting task as mindfulness workshops and getaways seem to exist in virtually every corner of the world. But that is the beauty of it! Mindful living is a research-based practice that also, coincidentally, is booming in popularity in recent years. As more and more research comes out about the powerful life-changing effects of mindfulness meditation, more and more workshops, retreats, and educational opportunities arise right around the corner. If you’re looking for an in-depth way to really delve into the practice of mindfulness, then a mindfulness retreat may be perfect for you. If you really want to learn how to incorporate your mindfulness meditation practice in even regular activities, then check out our yoga and meditation retreats. You can chat with your yoga teacher after the daily yoga classes about how to move mindfully through the postures. Once you start looking at your mindfulness practice like that, then you can learn how to incorporate into basically every part of your daily life. And that's where the magic happens.

Beginner Buddhist Retreats

Many people are turning to Buddhism as they discover that it complements many religions, lifestyles, and beliefs. The Four Noble Truths of Buddhism can be used in conjunction with any religion and can certainly be used to improve one’s life. They are, after all, the guide to end suffering. For those seeking spiritual enlightenment so that they may live a life without suffering, a Buddhist retreat is a perfect way to do so. You don't need to make it a silent retreat, either. You can stay at a Buddhist meditation center tucked away in the mountains somewhere and go hiking in nature, horseback riding along the trails, and enjoy wholesome food from the farm. Learning how to practice Buddhism isn't just a spiritual experience. It is a way to bring meaning to your everyday life, so stay somewhere that offers you the opportunity to do that.

Transcendental Meditation Retreats

Transcendental meditation is a technique used to achieve inner peace, and who doesn’t want that? While the name sounds as if it is a type of meditation reserved for only the most expert practitioners, it is actually an evidence-based meditation method that all people can practice. The practice uses a mantra for 15-20 twice daily and all you need to do is to learn the techniques. It helps reduce stress and anxiety, while also improving cardiovascular health and peace of mind. If you are interested in deepening your spiritual practice with clear guidelines, then a transcendental meditation retreat may be the perfect fit for you.

Yoga Meditation Retreats

Yoga and meditation go hand in hand as they both help you focus on your breath and communicate with your body. Unwind, recharge, and learn how to access your inner peace with a simple yoga and meditation practice. A yoga meditation retreat, such as the Rasayana Cove in Florida, is perfect for everyone and can serve as a great introduction to mindful living.

Metaphysical Retreats

A common misconception is that to be ‘spiritual’ means that you must shun science, but this couldn’t be the farthest from the truth. Because the science-based truth suggests that a spiritual realm indeed exists. If you would like to be able to combine your spirituality with science and religion, then attending a metaphysical retreat may be perfect for you.

Silent Meditation Retreat

The noise of everyday living can often impede our thoughts, creativity and inner peace. One of the best ways to return to a state of flow is by taking a pledge of silence. By committing yourself to structured quiet time, you are better able to actively observe both yourself and the world around you. This paired with a meditation practice can move mountains.

Spirit Mountain Retreat

Discover your life purpose as you deepen your meditation practice in the mountains. Many yogis escape to a Mount Shasta spiritual retreat in California for the ultimate spiritual travel experience. Others take their yoga retreat to the mountains in hopes of connecting the heart, body, and mind in a profound outdoor experience. Many even use the mountains for a silent retreat, where the only sound is the rustling pine needles overhead.

Spiritual Healing Retreat

Spiritual healing is a popular topics these days as people discover that much of their past trauma can be healed in this way. Many people seek healers to perform the task, though it is best to do the spiritual healing on yourself. Find yourself balanced, at peace, and flowing with positive energy by healing yourself spiritually at a spiritual healing retreat.

Spiritual Meditation Retreat

Achieve spiritual awareness and clarity by way of a spiritual meditation retreat. While meditation is a powerful tool for many to harness the full power of their brains during their daily living, a spiritual meditation retreat can help you put that some force toward your spirituality. Learn how to use meditation to take you deeper into yourself and the self beyond.

Spiritual Weekend Retreats

Maybe you’re looking for a quick check-up or a way to reset yourself in the middle of the chaos of your life. Weekend retreats are the perfect way to get the well-deserved break to really take your spirituality deeper. Many retreats know this and are ready to provide you with exactly what you need. They will often include spiritual exercises guided by experienced meditators. Even if you attend a spiritual weekend retreat for just a few days, you can get major clarity on the spiritual direction of your life. It can be a truly profound experience that will give you the tools needed for everyday life. You can jump into group retreats to meet like-minded people, or opt for silent retreats to allow space for optimal spiritual growth. Try searching for “spiritual weekend retreats near me” to find a retreat program right in your backyard.

Bali is on the other side of the world for most people (except you, Australia). Add to that the fact that it is so lush with nature that it undoubtedly provides a profound experience. It’s the perfect place to fully escape the chaos and immerse yourself in nature and yourself. If Bali is a bit out of your price range, check out Thailand, where you can find a tropical paradise for a fraction of the cost.

Europe knows how to do things right. It is rich with cultural history and amazing terrain so that virtually every country you visit looks like a postcard. Whether you’re looking for a luxury retreat or a totally eco-friendly resort, you can happily find what you’re looking for.

The United States is full of amazing places. The expansive land allows enough variety in terrain that you can lose yourself in the Sierra Nevadas in California, find yourself in the red rocks of Sedona, or hide away in the rolling landscapes of Pennsylvania. Get lost in the mountains of Colorado. Pull on the buzzing energy of New York, or join a women's retreat in Texas. Take a look around the USA to see what kind of vacation you can plan.

Escape to the many beautiful hidden places of Australia for a truly enchanting spiritual retreat. Whether you're finding yourself on the pristine beaches or you're discovering your inner being deep in the deserts, Australia is bound to transform you. And boy do we have some retreats lined up for you.

Oh, Canada. The beautiful mountains and plains of Canada serve as the perfect setting for deep inner reflection and meditation. Escape to nature for your upcoming spiritual retreat and you will undoubtedly be transformed.

India, the homeland. Where it all began. If there was ever a place on Earth that was innately spiritual, this would be it. You will find countless holidays and vacations with that spiritual focus that you are looking for. Find yourself during a spiritual retreat in India.

Spiritual Retreats for Women

Women's retreats are killing it this year and will likely continue to grow in popularity over the coming years. It's no surprise, either. While we certainly love our men just as much as our women here at Book Retreats, there really is no denying the special bond that women create among each other.

10 of the World's Best Spiritual Retreats

We know that choosing the perfect spiritual holiday can be a bit overwhelming when there are so many amazing retreats to choose from. Don't worry, we've got you covered. Below is a list of our top 10 spiritual retreats all over the world. How do we know that they're the best? Because hundreds of yogis just like you have already been on these vacations and rated them as oh-my-gosh-this-is-so-good with five-star ratings.

Bring clarity to your life’s purpose and priorities, and start to greet the unknown with open arms. The acknowledgment of our own impermanence holds within it the key to life itself. This retreat is suitable for anyone facing death in the next 90 years. It will be a reflective, meditative, poignant, life-changing, and fun week! No prior experience is needed to participate – all you need is open mind and curiosity. Yoga is optional. No yoga experience required.

This program has been designed as LEVEL 1 in our a clear and approachable initiation to the world of Traditional Tantra. The knowledge within is based on Tantra, Mantra, Yantra as taught by Guruji Rajkumar and Tantra Yoga in Level. Over the years Kamala Aryavrat has studied and practiced with her many teachers. When asked by others where they could study what she has, it became evident that there was no single place or course that could offer the totality of Tantra as she knows it. This Tantra Marga Intensive Course was created to allow for the traditional tantric knowledge shared to her by her teachers, to be more available to those who feel called to walk this transformational path.

Of course, Bali makes it to the list (two more below, too). This retreat is especially popular because it builds a beautiful community of women right into the retreat. Explore your femininity along with your spirituality in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

If you are interested in an Ayahuasca retreat, then the first place to start is in Peru. Peru is known for its Ayahuasca so finding an Ayahuasca retreat will be easy to do. This particular treat in Peru is located right in the heart of the land of spiritual awakening. It includes vegetarian meals, daily guided meditations, yoga, and spiritual teachings. It's also nearby where Ayahuasca naturally grows so if you ask around, you could probably find a shaman to perform an Ayahuasca ceremony with you.

Join AumRak for this mystical 8-day retreat at the beautiful Hacienda San Lucas in the ancient Maya civilization of Copan, Honduras. Archaeologists have identified Copán as one of the most elaborate cultural centers of the Mayan world, but after one look at the ancient temples, you’ll wonder why it took an archaeology degree to figure that out.

Costa Rica is the unofficial Southeast Asia of Central America, boasting lush jungles and tropical beaches. Escape to this tropical paradise and enjoy the tranquil "Pura Vida" lifestyle. Do yoga, meditate, and heal yourself in this popular spiritual holiday.

Ayurveda and yoga go hand in hand as they both support a holistic approach to living. Naturally, this is an incredibly spiritual experience as you learn how to nourish your body and soul. Ayurveda includes eating for your dosha, or personality type. Learn how to provide the best support to your body based on ancient Ayurvedic wisdom. Oh, and it's in the top yoga destination of the world.

Sri Lanka is a hidden gem that melds together the cultures of both Southeast Asia and India. Learn how to utilize the ancient healing techniques of Ayurveda in order to rejuvenate yourself. Indulge in the beautiful tropical climate of Sri Lanka while hitting zen-mode in the predominately Buddhist culture.

The Esalen Institute is a retreat center that welcomes people from all over the world to their alternative lifestyle community living. They are perfect for personal retreats because they welcome anyone at any time. Much like a 'rainbow gathering', the Esalen Institute is made up of like-minded people who are a lot like the long-standing international rainbow family. A stay at this retreat center in Big Sur is more than just a weekend retreat, though. It is an entire experience of living with a hippie community and learning how to incorporate their values into daily life. This place is for open-minded people.

This will be the cheapest yoga retreat you will ever embark on. And probably one of the most incredible retreats, too. Nepal is an incredibly magical place, drawing energy from all of the surrounding regions. Plus, the views are incredible. It is the perfect place to take a meditation retreat. At least that's what the five-star rating says.

Spiritual Retreats Near Me

If you're looking for retreat centres near you that can offer you some spiritual direction, then fear not: there are tons of opportunities to get in on that spiritual action no matter where you are. From mindfulness-based stress reduction to full-on Buddhist retreats, you will find spiritually-based group retreats all over the world. Here are some of the top destinations for your spiritual journey...

The US has been leaning toward a more holistic approach to wellness lately, meaning that many people are doing more meditation sessions and enjoying home-cooked meals. The cool thing is that this has naturally made its way into retreats and holidays all throughout the country. Now, you can find yoga and meditation retreats in California, Buddhist retreats in Florida, and spiritual retreats in the natural beauty of Colorado. Develop your mind-body connection among like-minded people on a spiritual retreat in the US.

Escape everyday life for a few days on a personal retreat that focuses on developing your mind-body connection through yoga and meditation. There are heaps of spiritual retreat holidays in the UK and Ireland, many of which serve home-cooked meals and provide a place of peace. Spain is also super popular for guests looking for profound spiritual growth, thanks to all that sunshine and fresh food perfect for vegetarian meals. Head to Greece for the Mediterranean vibes and stay in rooms overlooking bright, turquoise water.

Asia and Southeast Asia, in particular, has a natural beauty that supports your health and well-being in the most organic of ways. From lush tropical jungles to warm salty beaches, you will find plenty of beautiful options for your spiritual retreat. Study Buddhist teachings in Thailand or Cambodia, where you can attend daily guided meditation classes at a local temple. Or head over to India to study yoga and meditation in the purest form, which will surely send you on a transformative spiritual journey. Whether you're seeking God or simply looking for space to go within, such as on a silent meditation retreat, you will find a spot to do it in Asia.

FAQ

What if I’m looking for a Christian spiritual retreat?

Truthfully, many churches organize retreats so it may be worth checking out if you attend a church. If not, then go ahead and ask the retreat owners about how Christianity might fit into the retreat. Some may focus on beliefs that are far outside of your own but many others will likely provide you with the perfect atmosphere for you to take your faith even further.

What can I expect at a spiritual retreat, really?

It’s always a bit of a gamble when you’re looking for a spiritual retreat, isn’t it? Well, that’s because spiritual retreats can vary greatly. Some may be very crunchy while others can be very non-denominational. Talk to the retreat owners, themselves, and ask them exactly what you can expect.

Atheists, how do you feel about spiritual retreats?

This can be a tricky idea to grasp, that spirituality and atheism can exist together. For some atheists, perhaps they cannot exist together. For others, however, spirituality is not necessarily a concept of a Higher Being so much as it is a quest for inner peace.

Spirituality can be interpreted in many different ways and I supposed that atheists approach it with as much variety.

Know anything about spiritual retreats?

Yes, definitely. Scroll back up to the top for all the juicy details.

Spiritual retreats, are they a benefit?

Obviously, we dig them; we have an entire manifesto right here touting all of our favorite benefits of spiritual retreats! Scroll back up and take a look at all of the many wonderful benefits of going on a spiritual retreat.

When and where are specific women's spiritual retreats?

If you take a look at our list of spiritual retreats, then you can weed out the ones that are meant for women only. You can also view our women’s retreats and see which ones have a spiritual component. Either way, you are bound to find the perfect combination of spirituality and girl power.

Where can I find info on mother-daughter spiritual retreats?

A women’s retreat is the perfect place to get that mother-daughter dynamic flowing. If you’re looking for a very specific retreat that fosters the mother-daughter relationship, then send a message to the retreat owners to inquire about the activities they have in store. Maybe they have the perfect agenda for you!

Many of our retreats listed here are of excellent quality and that is where I’d recommend beginning your search :) Plus, the retreat owners are pretty rad and I’d bet that many of them are willing to accommodate you in your quest to find the perfect retreat.

Do you find spiritual retreats boring and lacking in originality?

You know what? In a way, I do believe that some spiritual retreats are a bit cookie-cutter. Ever since Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat Pray Love became a Blockbuster hit, spiritual retreats have seemingly turned into a fab that is heavy on the retreat and light on the spirituality.

And that’s okay! Where I am at in my spiritual practice is a totally different place than where you may be at. Maybe these spirit-lite retreats are perfect for those just beginning their spiritual path. If you’re worried about your own experience, then shoot the retreat owner a message. They know their retreats the best and can give you a good idea of what to expect.

What does it feel like exactly when attending a spiritual retreat & fasting?

This totally depends on you :) Everybody responds differently to these things. Fasting can be an orgasmic experience for some, while others may devolve into a temperamental gremlin-like creature. It depends on the mindset that you take into it, your own body composition, and your personal tasks that this universe has set out for you.